Bali is a place that screams sybaritic splendor and Edenic bliss all at once. Of the thousands of islands in the Indonesian archipelago, the best beaches in Bali are undoubtedly the most visited. Seamlessly blending calm with the spiritual and a dose of fun, Bali’s best beaches (pantai in Bahasa Indonesia) speak for itself. Together with the soft-sand beaches, the Indian Ocean’s kaleidoscopic haze of blues and greens has seduced travelers from all around–from honeymooners and digital nomads to families and friends–making it all the more reason to protect it when visiting.

Although it may be tempting to hole up in your dreamy villa, the beaches of Bali have a certain allure and before you know it, you’ll have spent the day lazing on the sand with a Bintang or fresh coconut in hand. But before we dive into the eight best beaches in Bali, let’s square away some common questions.

Which coast of Bali has the best beaches?

This depends on what you’re after. The party scenes in beach clubs lean to the south–Seminyak, Jimbaran, and Canggu beaches are the buzziest corners. Surfers gravitate towards the southwest and east coasts for the big-league waves where Uluwatu and Nusa Dua boast some gnarly surf breaks. The northeastern side has glimmering black sands that are hidden gems for those craving some stillness and most resorts have their own well-manicured, private beaches with some offering day passes for non-guests.

Are beaches free in Bali?

While most beaches don’t have entrance fees, some do. Foreigners often pay a little more compared to domestic visitors, with prices ranging around Rp15,000 (about $1), excluding parking.

When is the best time to go to the beach in Bali?

Early in the morning, just after sunrise, is the best time to visit the beach since it is quieter, the air is cooler, and the humidity is more bearable. The southern part of the island is the most developed, with cafes, bars, and shops lining the streets, so beaches can be packed during the daytime.